By the 1840s, Indiana government officials were calling their state “the Hoosier state.”

IU’s adoption of the Hoosier nickname for its athletic teams has given the word further meaning for those at IU.

“From an athletic standpoint, it’s not a tangible thing,” IU Deputy Athletic Director Scott Dolson said. “It’s more of a feel and a way that you believe. It’s the way you carry yourself, the way you treat people, the way you show support for your school.”

Senior Ryan Diefenderfer said he agreed.

“Bloomington in general is a great cultural place, so that ties in with the school spirit and what being a Hoosier is for me, at least,” Diefenderfer said.

Krumwiede said being a Hoosier is about taking pride in one’s self and school.

“People are always really proud to say they’re a Hoosier, that they’re from IU,” she said.

Dolson said that pride extends throughout the whole university.

“In general, whether you’re in IU athletics or the Kelley School of Business or what have you, everyone takes pride in the fact that they’re part of the Hoosier nation and they’re Hoosiers,” Dolson said.

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